The Future of Agroforestry Systems for Sustainable Livelihoods: Policy and Governance Dimensions

The importance of agroforestry has never been more conspicuous and palpable as it is today. This is due to the prevalent situation of global warming and climate change which calls for nature-based adaptive and mitigation solutions which not only contribute to sustainable livelihoods but equally enhance environmental sustainability. Agroforestry fits squarely as a practice that enhances sustainable livelihoods while fostering environmental sustainability. The policy and governance framework for agroforestry is still lacking in many regards. This chapter undertakes an in-depth review of literature to understand the current situation while charting new empirical research pathways. Findings reveal that, agroforestry is crucial for sustainable livelihoods as it contributes to livelihood diversification through diverse benefits such as food, fuelwood, fodder, fruits, traditional medicines, fish, meat, milk, hides and skin, honey, poles, building materials, spices. Through these livelihood diversification benefits from agroforestry are added improvements in physical, natural, human and financial capital. The policy framework for agroforestry as a sustainable livelihood strategy is largely well developed in India and Nepal where there are National Agroforestry Policies. There are also global policies such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Conventions such as the convention on biological diversity, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and the convention to combat desertification which factor in agroforestry as a climate-smart and sustainable livelihood option. In terms of governance, countries in the global north have better governance mechanisms which promote agroforestry as a sustainable livelihood strategy. In the global south, besides countries like India and Nepal which have an advanced governance mechanism for agroforestry, the governance framework is poor is most countries in the global south. A better policy and governance framework will contribute to enhance agroforestry as a sustainable livelihood option across the world in general and the developing world in particular.